Again, I was able to coordinate my reading with my travels. I read this book in between airport stops in Amsterdam. I love it when that happens.
As it turns out though, Amsterdam primarily takes place in England. It starts out with two men, friends, at a funeral of their former lover. Clive is a famous modern composer who is currently working on a commissioned symphony to celebrate the new millennium. Vernon is the editor of newspaper who is currently working on a major breaking news story. Their friendship is tested as they each make choices about their lives, their work, and their deaths.
The structure, writing, and execution of this book is flawless. Though apparently simple and short, McEwan manages to weave a complicated story with profound implications. I can see why this book won the Booker prize. Ian McEwan is quickly becoming one of my favorite living authors.
Amsterdam, by Ian McEwan 
Other Reviews:
Incurable Logophilia
Melody’s Reading Corner
Buy Amsterdam: A Novel
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{ 9 comments… read them below or add one }
I have enjoyed other Ian McEwan books before, he is very talented isn’t he, but have not come across this one yet. I will certainly look out for it on your recommendation. I am going to Amsterdam in 3 weeks too so it must be a sign!
I haven’t any of this author yet but I’m looking forward to giving him a try sometime!
I’ve only read Atonement, but I think your description – “The structure, writing, and execution of this book is flawless.” – holds there too. I’ll have to make a point of seeking out more of McEwan’s works. Thanks for the review!
“The structure, writing, and execution of this book is flawless. ” That’s exactly how I felt about On Chesil Beach and Atonement. I’ll be adding Amsterdam to my TBR list!
I’m really looking forward to reading Atonement. I just read Saturday and I thought it was really boring. I’m hoping it was just a fluke.
I just got this book from PaperbackSwap and can’t wait to get to reading it. I picked it because I’m Dutch and try to pick up things that take place in the Netherlands. Boy did I laugh when you mentioned that it mainly takes place in England. ;) ;) I hope to one day follow in your footsteps and fly to Amsterdam myself.
I have only had the chance to read Atonement so far, but I was amazed by the author’s writing. I am really looking forward to reading this one. Great review!
I own a lot of McEwan books but have not read any of them yet. This is one I don’t own, but is on my TBR.
Where were you heading when you stopped in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam is brilliant. It was my introduction to McEwan and may still be my favorite. I think it is as diabolically clever as the best Roald Dahl.